Lake Pend Oreille, the largest lake in Idaho, spans across Bonner and Kootenai Counties in the northern Idaho Panhandle. Covering approximately 148 square miles with a 111-mile shoreline, it is also one of the deepest lakes in the United States, reaching a maximum depth of 1,158 feet. Surrounded by stunning mountain ranges, its clear waters offer a wide array of recreational opportunities. Anglers are drawn to the lake for its trophy-sized Kamloops rainbow trout, as well as lake trout, northern pike, and various bass species.
Lake Pend Oreille is a haven for boating, sailing, kayaking, and swimming. Numerous parks, beaches, and boat launches provide easy access to the water. The lake's exceptional depth and size have even made it a site for U.S. Navy acoustic research and submarine testing. The surrounding area offers hiking trails with breathtaking vistas, including those in the nearby Idaho Panhandle National Forests and Farragut State Park. With its majestic scenery and diverse activities, Lake Pend Oreille is a significant natural and recreational gem in northern Idaho.
